The Smith’s were proud of their family tradition. Their ancestorshad come to America on the Mayflower. They had included Senatorsand Wall Street wizards.They decided to compile a family history, a legacy for theirchildren and grandchildren. They hired a fine author. Only oneproblem arose — how to handle that great-uncle George, who wasexecuted in the electric chair.The author said he could handle the story tactfully.The book appeared. It said, “Great-uncle George occupied a chair ofapplied electronics at an important government institution, wasattached to his position by the strongest of ties, and his deathcame as a great shock.”